Because of its focus on history, a social studies unit naturally lends itself to explorer activities. Once students have researched or learned about explorers, allow them to create a massive time line that outlines various explorers' accomplishments and failures. Assign each student a different explorer. You may even want them to practice their public speaking skills by requiring them to give oral presentations on the explorers.
Once students have learned about a particular explorer, or group of explorers, give them the opportunity to flex their writing muscles by taking on the voice of a specific explorer and writing a mock journal. The students should maintain the point of view of the explorer throughout their journal and be sure to include accurate dates with each entry.
Students can use paper maps to trace the distances traveled by a specific explorer. Explain that each inch on a map represents an actual number of miles. Once they've measured the distance on the map, they can use ratios or cross multiplication to convert the feet and inches on the map into actual distance measurements. Have them compare the distance traveled by the explorer to distances they travel on a daily basis, such as the distance between home and school. This will help them appreciate the accomplishments of their explorers.
Assign each student an explorer and have them research the explorer's life and career by searching reliable sources on the Internet and through databases. This will not only teach the students history but also basic research skills. Once they have accumulated enough information, have them organize what they have learned in PowerPoint presentations.